Projected front runners on offense to make the Cowboys 53-man roster

In a bit of a surprise, I am going light in the backfield. Running back Ezekiel Elliott is obviously the starting running back and with the offseason it appears he is having, I expect him to have the same kind of impact he had his rookie season.

The disrespect Zeke has received is probably what he is using as motivation to quiet the naysayers so continue to fuel if you must, it appears he is consuming it correctly.

Underused backup running back Tony Pollard should continue his duties as the primary kick returner but should have a bigger role behind Elliott. A fresh Zeke that can grind out the clock in the fourth quarter can only help the team by keeping the defense off the field.

The obvious way to do this is by increasing Pollard’s workload earlier in the game so Zeke can close them out late.

I am going light in the backfield because the team can easily stash runningbacks on the practice squad but I am going to find a spot for a fullback.

Sewo Olonilua should be the leader of the fullback pack but I think undrafted free agent from Louisiana-Lafayette Nick Ralston is a real find. I watched a good amount of his film and this guy is a swiss army knife.

Zeke’s production has fallen and one reason for his decline in stats might be due to the fact the team hasn’t had a power fullback since Keith Smith departed via trade for a pass-catching fullback that was rarely utilized. Ralston has the ability to do both.

First off he is strong and low to the ground making him an ideal fullback. He has the brute strength to dig a linebacker out of his gap but also understands angles so well that he can move his defender with a plethora of blocking moves.

Runningbacks making business decisions on the field often is often the catalyst in fans turning on you yet the way Ralston blocks could be a real asset. Ralston doesn’t always use strength to get his assignment out of the way and that unique skill set he brings will, in my opinion, earn him a roster spot.

I am really impressed with this kid and I believe he is going to become Ezekiel Elliotts’ new best friend. Former Dallas Cowboys fullback Daryl Johnston is a fan and does have certain traits that remind me of “Moose”.

Going light here opens up a roster spot for another position so I am not too concerned if the Cowboys decide to go this route. Running back Rico Dowdle still has practice squad eligibility and stashing him there as an emergency runner is a realistic possibility.

Ralston can also steal some carries in a pinch so not all is lost if the two guys ahead of him get banged up.

Ralston is currently assigned the number 46. If he does make the roster, the Dallas Cowboys should give him number 48 and start a new legacy.

Backfield (3) (6)

• Ezekiel Elliott (RB1)
• Tony Pollard (RB2)
• Nick Ralston (FB1)